Chaetodipterus

noun

Chae·​to·​dip·​ter·​us

-ˈdiptərəs

: a genus of spadefishes (family Ephippidae) found in warm seas along both coasts of America and distinguished by protractile premaxillaries and dorsal spines of unequal length

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from chaet- + Greek dipteros two-winged

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now